Choosing a wedding band is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The band sets the tone for your entire reception. Get it right, and your guests will talk about it for years. Get it wrong, and... well, we've all been to those weddings.
We've played over 500 weddings across Ireland. We've seen what works, what doesn't, and what separates a good band from a great one. This guide shares everything we've learned - even the stuff that might talk you out of booking us.
In This Guide
When to Book Your Wedding Band
The wedding industry runs 12-18 months ahead. Good bands get booked early, especially for peak season (May-September) Saturdays.
Here's the reality:
- 18+ months out: You'll have your pick of bands. Ideal timing.
- 12-18 months out: Most good bands still have availability. Start looking now.
- 6-12 months out: Your options are narrowing. Act fast on bands you like.
- Under 6 months: You may need to compromise on your first choice.
Pro Tip
Book your band before sending invitations. You don't want to lock in a date and then find out every good band is booked.
Wedding Band vs DJ: Which is Right for You?
This isn't band vs DJ - it's about what experience you want for your wedding.
Choose a Live Band If:
- You want a focal point and entertainment
- You value atmosphere and energy over song-perfect replicas
- Your crowd skews older or mixed ages
- You're hosting in a venue with character (castle, manor house, etc.)
- You want something memorable and unique
Choose a DJ If:
- You have very specific songs that must be played exactly
- Your crowd prefers current chart hits and club music
- Budget is your primary concern
- You want seamless transitions between songs
Why Not Both?
Many couples book a band for the first 2-3 hours, then switch to a DJ. This gives you the live energy for the peak dancing time and the DJ for late-night requests.
10 Questions to Ask Every Wedding Band
These questions will tell you everything you need to know about whether a band is professional, reliable, and right for your wedding.
1. "Will the musicians in your videos be the same ones at my wedding?"
Why it matters: Many agencies swap musicians. The tight, polished band you saw on YouTube might not be who shows up. Always ask for a guarantee in writing.
2. "Can I see you perform live before booking?"
Why it matters: Videos can be edited and polished. Seeing a band live reveals their true energy, stage presence, and how they interact with a crowd. Good bands offer showcases.
3. "What happens if a band member is sick on my wedding day?"
Why it matters: This reveals their contingency planning. A professional answer involves backup musicians they've rehearsed with. An unprofessional answer is vague or dismissive.
4. "What's included in your price, and what costs extra?"
Why it matters: Some bands quote low then add fees for PA, lighting, travel, DJ service, learning songs, overtime, etc. Get a complete breakdown.
5. "How do you handle song requests - from us and from guests?"
Why it matters: You want a band that balances your preferences with reading the room. Bands that play a rigid setlist regardless of crowd energy are a red flag.
6. "What time do you arrive, and what does your setup involve?"
Why it matters: Professional bands arrive 1-2 hours early for sound check. They should coordinate with your venue and wedding planner without you having to manage it.
7. "Do you have public liability insurance?"
Why it matters: Most venues require this. Professionals have it. Amateurs don't. Simple filter.
8. "Can I speak to couples whose weddings you've played?"
Why it matters: Reviews are great, but speaking to real couples is better. Good bands will happily provide references.
9. "What's your experience with my venue?"
Why it matters: Bands who've played your venue know its acoustics, power requirements, load-in logistics, and coordinator preferences. This makes everything smoother.
10. "What's your cancellation/refund policy?"
Why it matters: Life happens. Understand what happens to your deposit if you need to postpone or cancel. A fair policy protects both sides.
Red Flags to Watch For
After 500 weddings, we've seen good vendors and bad ones. Here are warning signs:
They Can't Guarantee the Same Musicians
"The lineup may vary" means you're booking a brand name, not a band. The chemistry you see on video won't be there if half the musicians just met.
They Won't Let You See Them Live
If a band won't invite you to a showcase or public gig, ask yourself why. Good bands are proud of their live performance.
Communication is Slow or Vague
If they take weeks to reply or give non-answers, imagine how they'll handle questions on your wedding day. Professionalism starts with communication.
They Pressure You to Book Immediately
"This date is about to book!" High-pressure sales tactics are a red flag. Good bands let their quality speak for itself.
The Price Seems Too Good to Be True
Quality musicians cost money. A band charging half the market rate is either cutting corners somewhere or won't stay in business long enough to play your wedding.
Understanding Wedding Band Pricing
Wedding bands in Ireland typically range from EUR 2,000 to EUR 4,500+ for a 4-5 piece band. Here's what affects the price:
- Number of musicians: More musicians = higher cost (and fuller sound)
- Experience level: Bands with 100+ weddings command higher fees
- Reputation: Five-star reviewed bands can charge premium
- What's included: PA, lighting, DJ, travel, accommodation
- Day of week: Saturdays cost more than Fridays/Sundays
- Season: Peak summer costs more than winter
Budget Tip
Consider a Friday or Sunday wedding - many couples save EUR 500-1,000 and the band is often in better form (less exhausted from back-to-back Saturdays).
Why You Should See Them Live
We'll be direct: never book a wedding band without seeing them perform live first.
YouTube videos show you what a band can do in optimal conditions with editing. A live showcase shows you:
- How they sound in a real room with real acoustics
- Their stage presence and energy levels
- How they interact with each other (chemistry matters)
- How they read and respond to a crowd
- Their professionalism between songs
Good bands run regular showcases. If a band doesn't offer this, it's worth asking why.
Want to See Us Live?
We run free showcases throughout the year. Come see what we're about - no obligation, no hard sell.
View Showcase DatesFinal Thoughts
Your wedding band will be responsible for one of the most memorable parts of your day. Take the time to research, ask questions, and see them live.
The right band won't just play music - they'll read the room, adapt to the energy, and create moments that your guests will remember for years.
Whatever band you choose, we hope your dancefloor is packed and your night is unforgettable.
This guide was written by The Beat Boutique - a Dublin-based wedding band that has performed at over 500 weddings across Ireland. While we'd love you to consider us, this guide is designed to help you find the right band for your wedding, whether that's us or someone else.